Allahabad High Court Slams Meerut Trial Court: “Maintain Decorum, Restraint, and Patience”

Prayagraj: The Allahabad High Court has issued a stern warning to a Meerut trial court for displaying undue haste in judicial proceedings. Justice Kshitij Shailendra emphasized that judicial processes must be conducted with decency, restraint, and patience.

The High Court observed that if the trial court had waited a day or two for the certified copy of the Supreme Court’s order, it would have caused no harm. The criticism comes after the Meerut Sessions Court issued summons to the accused on the same day without waiting for the Supreme Court’s clarifications and orders.

Case Background
The matter pertains to the high-profile murder case in Mundali, Meerut. During the police investigation, certain individuals’ names were initially excluded. Later, an attempt was made to include them again under Section 319 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC). The petitioners approached the Supreme Court for relief, receiving favorable observations.

Despite being informed that the Supreme Court’s decision had been delivered but was yet to be uploaded, the trial court went ahead and issued summons to the accused immediately.

Petitioners’ Arguments
Senior advocate Vimalendu Tripathi, representing the petitioners, argued that the trial court’s action violated the Supreme Court’s directives and undermined fundamental principles of justice. He stated that before summoning an accused under Section 319, a thorough analysis of evidence, witness statements, and cross-examination is essential—something that was overlooked in haste.

Respondent’s Stand
The prosecution argued that the accused had a serious role in the crime and it was necessary to bring them to trial promptly to ensure justice.

High Court Verdict
After hearing both sides, the Allahabad High Court held that the dignity of the judiciary depends on the responsible and balanced exercise of its powers. Justice Shailendra remarked, “Justice must not only be done but also be seen to be done.” The court noted that such unnecessary haste creates public doubt about the judicial system.

Consequently, the High Court quashed the summons issued by the Meerut Sessions Court and remanded the matter for reconsideration. Additionally, trial courts were directed to avoid similar errors in the future to maintain the credibility and dignity of the judiciary.